Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a library card?

You must apply in person at the circulation desk. Bring a photo ID with your current address on it, or a photo ID and another form of ID with your current address with you. Children ages 13-17 may get a temporary library card, good for a one time use for books only, until the parent/guardian is able to fill out a permission slip taking full responsibility for said child. At that time the responsible party may choose to elect movie/game privileges.

How do I get a replacement card?

You must show a photo ID at the circulation desk to get a replacement card. The fee for replacing a lost or stolen card is $1.00.

How do I log onto my library account online?

You can log onto your library account online by clicking on MY ACCOUNT on the home page. The first time you log on, enter your library card number and PIN in the boxes under the heading Use your library card/ID and click on the login button. After you log on, there is an option to create an EZ Log On and password under the Account Summary section. An EZ Log On and password is a custom user id and password that you create. By creating an EZ Log On, you can access the you account using your EZ Log On credentials OR by your Library ID/PIN.

How do I renew items?

You can renew items by clicking on MY ACCOUNT on the home page. To log on, enter your library card number or EZ login User Name and your PIN. Click the arrow at the top left side of the screen to open the drop-down list of Account options, and then click Loans. Locate the title you want to renew. Click Renew Loan. Items will not renew if they are on hold for other patrons or if they have been renewed 4 times. You may also renew items via telephone, during business hours, or here at the library with your card or a current photo ID.

Can I renew overdue items?

You may renew items that are overdue as long as they are not on hold for other patrons and your fine is under $5.00.

How long do items circulate for?

The loan period for all books, circulating magazines, audiobooks, informational DVDs, music CDs and Playaways is 3 weeks(21 days).
The loan period for popular video tapes and DVDs that have been in the collection for over 3 months is 7 days.
The loan period for new popular DVDs is 3 days.
The loan period for games is 7 days.

What is the charge for overdue items?

Items that circulate for 3 weeks will be charged at the rate of $.05 per day. Items that circulate for 3 days or 7 days will be charged at the rate of $1.00 per day. In case of an emergency closing, stay home and stay safe. We will not charge a fine for items not returned that day. You can still access your online account to place requests and renew items.

Do you offer electronic books?

Yes, we offer electronic books and digital audio books. Visit our Digital Book page to learn more about this service.

How do I make a donation to the library?

Donations can be made to the Amherst Public Library Fund. These gifts enable the library to go beyond basic library services paid for by tax monies. Gifts can provide special materials and programs, benefit the community through preservation and beautification of one of our historic buildings, and act as a safety cushion for the library when the economic climate is difficult. For more information on the Amherst Public Library Fund, contact Don Dovala at (440)988-4230.

How do I apply for a job at the library?

All job opportunities will be posted on the website and on the information bulletin board in the library. For your convenience, applications are available at the Circulation Desk. Completed applications may be mailed or returned to the Circulation Desk. Resumes may be e-mailed to Don Dovala or faxed to (440)988-4115.

Did you find a lost item that you paid for?

As of September 2015 – you may renew your lost item up to 4 times. At the end of this time period you will be charged the replacement cost of this item and reimbursement will no longer be possible, as the lost item will have been repurchased by the APL.